PHILOSOPHICAL REFLECTIONS ON BRIDGE..... ( By Professor Hu Chi Ku Chi )

As bridge players we all have an inner compass that directs us to go about the play of a hand in a particular way. For the majority of us this inner compass is always out of sync , but thankfully it can be corrected by every book we read, and every outside mind that shows us a better way to bid and play the cards. However, once we stop absorbing and listening to good advice, the oscillation gradually dies down, and the needle returns to its old orientation. This is an inherent trait of the human condition : retreating back to our old wayward habits.

The harsh reality is that one can only absorb so much, and take on board the wisdom of others. Saturation thresholds are quickly reached, and from this new static position we then venture out, far less certain and confident of our bearings. As a result we inevitably wind our way back to the comfort zones of familar territory , where once again our inadequate inner compass regains control .